United Way raises largest amount ever during 2017

Campaign raised a record $105 million in donations

United Way of Toronto and York Region raised $105 million in its latest campaign, surpassing its largest-ever fundraising goal of $103 million.

The poverty-fighting charity raised an “unbelievable” sum, said United Way CEO Daniele Zanotti.

It’s the second year in a row United Way has raised its most money ever, the organization said.

“We are a blessed region with the generosity and care that we continue to see year over year,” Zanotti said.

Outside of government, United Way is the biggest funder of community services to support people and families in the region, the charity said in a news release.

The results of the 2017 Uprising of Care fundraiser were announced Thursday night at the charity’s annual gala.

About 241,000 people donated to the campaign. Zanotti said that number is just as important as the dollar amount, as the organization has set a goal of getting one million people involved by 2025.

This year, the Star’s fundraising campaign for United raised $117,000, plus a corporate donation of an additional $40,000. The contributions continue a 61-year partnership between Torstar and United Way, said Torstar president and chief executive officer John Boynton in November.

In September, United Way of Toronto and York Region announced it would merge with United Way of Peel.

The 2018 year’s campaign will, for the first time, be run by the United Way of Greater Toronto.

United Way’s new goal will likely be announced in the fall.

However, fundraising continues year-round.